Chapter 1: The Concept of Unconditional Love

As part of my New Year’s resolutions for 2023, I aimed to adopt a more organized approach. On January 1st, I swiftly compiled a list of themes to write about, with “unconditional love” slated for this week. However, I’ve come to realize that unconditional love is more suited for superheroes and saints—far beyond my qualifications to discuss it directly. Here’s my unique perspective on the subject.

When I contemplate unconditional love in a broader context, I envision it as a steadfast “yes” to life, embracing whatever it brings. My own experiences, however, have not mirrored this ideal; they have felt more like a mix of bouquets and brickbats, influenced by my circumstances and emotions.

For those unfamiliar with the term “bouquets and brickbats,” it refers to the act of praising or criticizing something based on personal feelings. Bouquets signify approval, while brickbats denote disapproval. I picked up this phrase from a local restaurant review group on Facebook.

The peak of my frustration, or “brickbat-throwing,” occurred in my early twenties, just before I graduated from college. I raced through my teenage years, achieving significant milestones early on, receiving attention for a music career that never took off, and indulging in everything except the endeavors that would have led me toward my dream of becoming a successful singer.

At 23, I watched my friends embark on exciting new paths while I felt stagnant and disheartened. The sense of abandonment deepened when my parents divorced and my on-again, off-again boyfriend moved away to pursue a new life. Graduating from college left me feeling lost and sorrowful. I turned to alcohol more frequently, paralyzed by the fear of change, and filled with anger.

At that time, I felt forsaken and blamed others for my plight, which fueled my inclination to hurl metaphorical brickbats at life.

Then, just a few months post-graduation, I received the life-altering diagnosis of cancer at 24. Ironically, I had always considered 24 my “golden year,” yet here I was, facing a formidable challenge.

Battling cancer served as a catalyst for a significant life reset. I learned that casting brickbats at life was futile.

I discovered a profound love for my existence and a strong desire to preserve it. I realized that the past was behind me, regardless of who was to blame. All I had was the present moment.

Now, fourteen years later, this moment remains the only one I truly possess. Consequently, I have largely ceased my brickbat-throwing behavior. Each morning, I wake up healthy, grateful for another opportunity to shape the life I envision—or not.

Remember...

It's your choice to pursue happiness.

It's your decision to embrace life.

It's your responsibility to forgive yourself and others.

You hold the power to bring bouquets into your life.

No matter what unfolds, you need not “unconditionally love” every situation. However, opting to present bouquets instead of brickbats can be a transformative first step.

Chapter 2: Insights from Life's Challenges

In the video titled "Is 'Unconditional Love' UNREALISTIC??? || Halfcast Podcast," the hosts delve into whether unconditional love is a feasible expectation in relationships, exploring the complexities of love and personal boundaries.

Terri Cole’s video "Does Unconditional Love Exist?" examines the reality of unconditional love, discussing its implications and how it manifests in our lives.